Fee: $6 adult (13+); $3 child (5-12); free under 5
About this park
Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores is a large coastal park of about 6,150 acres, with sugar-white sand beaches, freshwater lakes, marshes and pine forests. It is one of the most complete outdoor destinations on Alabama's Gulf Coast. The park has two miles of beaches for swimming and sunbathing, a long fishing pier over the Gulf, a lodge and about 28 miles of trails for walking and biking. A large campground makes it a great base for a longer beach vacation, and the park's lakes and wetlands offer excellent birdwatching and paddling. Admission is $6 for adults 13 and older, $3 for children 5 to 12, and free for children under 5. Summer is the busiest season, so plan ahead for camping and parking.